Fall Risks and What I did to Help My Father

by Tanja
(Biloxi, MS)

After my Dad had a scary instance of almost falling down at the grocery store, I got to thinking about it. If I were older and had limited vision or mobility issues, what would constitute an elderly falls risk to me? Those throw rugs on the floor? The linoleum or tile floor in his kitchen or bathroom that can get slippery when wet?

Getting into or out of the tub or shower? These are just a few of the issues that I think concern many older adults and can lead to lack of hygiene, increased immobility due to a fear of falling, and more.

Fall risks for my Dad could increase depending on mental or physical changes, mobility, and side effects caused by medications the doctor says. Home hazards such as loose carpeting, floorboards, or throw rugs are also a major contributor.

Electrical cords and phone cords should be tucked under rugs or against baseboards to reduce fall risks. I have taken the action I hope will reduce elderly falls, slips and accidents in the bathroom or kitchen through the use of non-slip rubber mats.

Physical weakness, instability, loss of balance, or mobility caused by numerous conditions including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and multiple sclerosis also contribute to falls also according to our doctor.

For my elderly Dad, grab bars, raised toilet seats, handrails, or shower or tub chairs will help reduce the risk of falls. They certainly cannot hurt.

For me, I looked at my Dad’s living environment with a critical eye. I looked at it from different levels as well as based on what I know and have seen on his physical limitations, visual impairment.

I decided not to take any chances. I took the time and made the effort to create an environment that enhances his safety and security and reduces fall risks. I knew if I did not take the time now the guilt would be enormous if something happened and I had not done anything.